Prof. Satoshi Shimo from HSU Japan Explains the Correlation of Amygdala Cognitive Changes with Improved Patient Function
YOGYAKARTA – In a continuous effort to enrich academic insights and improve educational standards in the health sector, STIKES Notokusumo Yogyakarta successfully held an International Expert Lecture, which presented prominent speakers from Japan. The event featured Prof. Satoshi Shimo, a Professor from the Department of Rehabilitation and Head of the Occupational Therapy Course from Health Science University (HSU), Japan.
The expert lecture attended by STIKES Notokusumo lecturers and students focused on an innovative topic entitled: “Making the Unseen Mind Visible Through Science”.Prof. Shimo presented in-depth material on how neuroscience advances can be applied directly in the practice of Occupational Therapy (OT). At the heart of his presentation was the scientific discovery of the correlation between cognitive changes in the amygdala and improved functional performance in rehabilitation patients.
Through an interesting case study, Prof. Shimo showed rehabilitation data on patients in their 80s with a diagnosis of Left Cerebral Infarction (left cerebral infarction that resulted in right hemiplegia. The patient’s goal was simple but important: to return to knitting, a hobby she had previously loved.
The case demonstrated that the patient’s functional performance (knitting) experienced a significant improvement after the intervention. Prof. Shimo emphasized that this improvement occurs in line with cognitive changes in the Amygdala—the emotional center in the brain—that are triggered by positive stimuli such as the feeling of “Happy!” and “Fun!”. This underscores the importance of integrating emotional and cognitive factors in rehabilitation programs, where motivation and excitement have a scientifically measurable role.
In addition to sharing research findings, Prof. Shimo also provided an overview of the practical ecosystem at HSU. He presented various university-related facilities that support rehabilitation and health programs in Japan, including:
- Health Science University Clinic
- Health Science University Prenatal and Postnatal Care Center
- SASAMOTOKAI Group (Healthcare and care group).
The facility’s presentation provided expert lecture participants with real insight into how Occupational Therapy practice in Japan is supported by a comprehensive clinical infrastructure, covering the spectrum of care from rehabilitation to postnatal care. This expert lecture not only serves as a transfer of the latest knowledge, but also strengthens the international cooperation between STIKES Notokusumo and Health Science University.
Participants, both lecturers and students, gained valuable perspectives on global Occupational Therapy research standards and practices, motivating them to continue to develop their expertise and innovate in the field of health rehabilitation. The presence of Prof. Shimo is a catalyst for STIKES Notokusumo to continue to produce graduates who are ready to compete in the international health field.
